Top 10 Most Romantic Cities in Europe

Mixi November 02, 2021 | 23:25

Europe is easily one of the most romantic destinations in the world. Here are 10 destinations around Europe that you can easily fall in love with that KnowInsiders want to recommend for a romantic couple trip.

Romantic Cities in the Europe. Photo: KnowInsiders

Romantic Cities in Europe. Photo: KnowInsiders

Europe is a buzzing place that has a lot to offer to anyone who is seeking something special. Europe’s cities make for some of the most romantic backdrops imaginable. Streetside cafés, sweeping views, quaint churches, ancient cathedrals, and classical architecture set the scene in most European cities. For couples, visiting some of these romantic destinations in Europe is a healthy way to spice up the relationship and as well to enjoy a relaxing time away from reality, and escape the stress we get from our busy careers.

Which are the 10 Most Romantic Cities in Europe?

1. Venice, Italy

2. Paris, France

3. Opatija, Croatia

4. Prague, Czech Republic

5. Cornwall, England

6. Amsterdam, Netherlands

7. Santorini, Greece

8. Sintra, Portugal

9. Bruges, Belgium

10. Ljubljana, Slovenia

List of 10 Most Romantic Cities in Europe

1. Venice, Italy

Photo: Go World Travel Magazine

Where is the most romantic place in Europe? Italy is always a good place to start!

So, why not get lost in the small island of Venice with your partner and stumble upon something unexpected while walking on the cobblestone streets of this romantic destination in Europe. Perhaps ride a gondola and cruise along the small canals of this famous romantic destination!

Also, Venice, Italy is the perfect spot for your next romantic weekend breaks in Europe because it is small enough for you to see the top spots in the city.

Related read: If you want to visit other cities besides Venice, make sure to read our guide about the best day trips from this romantic destination in Europe. Read it here! Also, there are stunning castles in Italy you can explore while you’re there, don’t forget to check them out.

2. Paris, France

Photo: The Northern Club

There is no better city to start this list with than the City of Love. Lit by a thousand lights, flanked by the gorgeous Eiffel Tower, Paris is where the love of Heloise and Abelard blossomed.This is the city where Alice B Toklas found love in Gertrude Stein. Several centuries later, the air of love can still be felt in the French capital – in its picnic spots, boutique cafés, secret gardens, chocolates, the Palace of Versailles – everywhere.

It is no surprise why Paris is dubbed as the most romantic European city by many. A casual, slow-paced ramble on its cobbled streets, past the Art Nouveau edifices, evoke feelings that we read about in the novels. It’s also one of the prettiest cities in Europe.

Breathe in l’amour sans fin at The Wall of Love. Cruise along the Seine at sunset, stroll Rue des Barres, catch a movie at Le Champo, and steal a kiss at Pont des Arts! There’s something romantic to do at every step in Paris. Sundry acts like walking hand-in-hand also feel more beautiful.

3. Opatija, Croatia

Photo: Sofia Connect

Love is woven into the very fabric of Opatija, as the town saw numerous great romances among aristocrats and famous guests during its development as a tourist resort. Opatija’s beautiful parks, secluded paths, long coastal promenade and warm starlit evenings provide the perfect setting for special moments with a loved one. It is therefore no surprise that Opatija was many times declared one of the most romantic towns in Europe and has gained a reputation as a popular destination for weddings.Opatija, a charming coastal town with a rich history and culture, has many fantastic locations, impressive monuments, well-manicured parks and magnificent villas that are waiting to be discovered.

Opatija was designated a destination for wellness services and health tourism due to its pleasant Mediterranean climate and the benefits of its sea. The town is ideal for a quiet stay in a relaxing atmosphere. Thanks to the area’s mild winters, you can stay in the open air and enjoy long walks in Opatija’s parks and along its promenades, or have a cup of coffee on a terrace even in wintertime. Summers in Opatija are sunny without much rainfall, which means that you’ll have the opportunity to swim throughout your stay. Its pleasant climate makes Opatija a popular destination in all seasons.

Book your flights to Zagreb or Ljubljana Airports (2h by car - 3h by public transport) as well as your accommodation at the best price at the "Hotel Ambasador" for its world-class restaurants and lounge bar. We also highly recommend you to stay at the "Amadria Park Hotel Milenij". This five-star luxury hotel features Opatija's most beautiful views on Kvarner Bay. For an unforgettable stay, book at the "LRH hotel Palace Bellevue".

4. Prague, Czech Republic

Photo: Travel Lens

This city may be one of the best romantic places in Europe. It is also one of the cheapest places to travel to in Europe.

Lovers from across the world come to Prague to cherish their love and lock it for life at the city’s Charles Bridge.

Add to this the folklore charm of its cobbled streets, Gothic buildings, and medieval architectures. Walking the winding alleys of Prague is like walking a sweet romantic legend from a bygone era.

Experience the purest form of love at Vyšehrad Castle, where poets are buried with beautiful poems engraved on their tombstones. Enjoy a breezy date on a sunset Vltava river cruise or recapture the romance by riding a horse-drawn carriage in the Old Town.

If you are inspired by movies like Letters to Juliet, you could chase a serene date at the verdant vineyards of Viniční altán. Add a touch of class to this romantic European holiday by attending an opera at Prague National Theatre.

5. Cornwall, England

Photo: Full Suitcase

One of the most romantic and heroic figures in European history is definitely King Arthur, lord of the Britons. Though no one can agree if he was real, or where exactly he lived, his legacy is intimately linked with mysterious wind-swept Cornwall, a faerie-haunted land of beautiful seascapes and picture perfect villages. For romantic walks on the beach, quiet fireside dinners in historic pubs, and strolls in the wild countryside, Cornwall can’t be beat.

A short distance from London, it’s even got a surf scene for lovers of more extreme activities (though you’ll need a wetsuit a bit thicker than the one you brought to Bali!). Come discover what so many have already learned: Cornwall is for lovers.

6. Amsterdam, Netherlands

Photo: Cunard

The Dutch capital city of Amsterdam may not on first appearance seem to be a romantic haven. But plan it right and you may find yourself falling in love with more than just the city itself. Tranquil canals, fragrant flower stalls, bicycles for two, beautiful parks, and large, inviting museums all set the tone for a perfect romantic getaway.

Famed for its coffee shops and red-light district, one wouldn’t quickly assume that a city like would end up on a list like this. However, in recent years, this darling city has become one of the top getaway destinations for couples – most probably due to its charming age-old features. If you still haven’t got a clue on where to take your significant other, imagine a dinner cruise through Amsterdam's canals , or impress her with skip the line access to the Van Gogh Museum!

7. Santorini, Greece

Photo: KimKim

Greece’s Santorini is a private bolthole for an intimate whirl. The white-washed island is often brimming with couples. It may be one of the most popular honeymoon destinations in Europe.

When it comes to romance, Santorini stands out. What makes it a unique romantic place is the lack of archaic charm seen in other European cities. Unlike Paris and Prague, Santorini is more of a dreamy, seaside getaway with classic Mediterranean charm.

Come here to stay in a cozy, cliff-hugging resort, enjoy dinner on a patio overlooking the Caldera, stroll through streets lined with blue-domed buildings, and watch the sunset at Oia.

When thinking of chasing romance in Santorini, think of relaxing in a pool with sprawling views of the ocean and sunbathing on black sand beaches. Enjoy the simple pleasures of picking matching stones on the coastline. You can spend breezy evenings riding on a scooter, relishing local wine, or sampling Greek cuisine together.

The amount of classic romantic shots that a couple can take in Santorini is abounding. If you were thinking engagement, proposal, or even pre-wedding shoot, then it doesn’t get better than this Greek island.

8. Sintra, Portugal

Photo: iStock

Sintra is a jewel set between the mountains and the sea, waiting to be discovered by all who dare lose themselves in its majestic historical heritage, luxuriant nature, cosmopolitan cultural offer and opulent gastronomy.

Sintra exudes a romantic aura that left a deep impression on the soul and work of the writers who, in the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, pioneered the Romantic spirit and celebrated subjectivity and the emotion of the human drama. Sintra is truly the capital of Romanticism. It is a place to experience!

9. Bruges, Belgium

Photo: The Crazy Tourist

Nothing says love like chocolate, so why not travel to the country that’s the world’s number one exporter of this “food of the gods”? The quaint Belgium village of Bruges is perfect for popping in and out of aromatic chocolate shops, and footbridges over a labyrinth of canals and cobblestone streets lined with adorable almshouses make Bruges seem like it appeared right from the pages of a storybook. Belgium is another country that’s world-famous for beer, so pick a pint from over 110 different styles.

Romance is felt most at the Lake of Love crowned by the Lover’s Bridge. Both tell the doomed love story of Minna, a girl who died in the arms of her lover. The scenery at the lake is like a romantic novel that writes itself. Nothing in Brugge is as romantic as walking on the bridge. Also, the lake is home to several swans, the ultimate symbol of love, whom you can feed.

Other romantic things to do in Brugge include taking a carriage ride through the city – the ultimate Disney style! Forget about sharing a drink with two straws and share a hot chocolate. As the sunset approaches, catch a canal cruise ride.

10. Ljubljana, Slovenia

Photo: Dulichvietnam.com

Slovenia’s capital is every bit as picturesque as you’d expect it to be. With orange-roofed houses divided by a river canal and mountainous landscape, it is one of the most romantic cities in Europe.

The name of the city itself translates to the beloved. Now isn’t that beautiful? Apart from Paris, Ljubljana is also affectionately called the City of Love.

Not only will you fall in love with the city, but you will also fall for your loved one all over again.

There’s a lot a couple can do in this beautiful capital, starting with walking the quiet streets early in the morning. Lovers can also spend time admiring the architecture, riding up to the vantage Ljubljana Castle in a funicular, and then watch the sunset.

Call it a day at a sidewalk café lining the riverfront. Sample delicious local dishes while enjoying the lit river. Unleash your childish side together and go on a scavenger hunt for the city’s famous dragon sculptures. You can rent bikes and tour the city like two buoyant teens newly fallen in love.

However, what truly sets Ljubljana apart from the rest is its hip atmosphere. Despite the old, medieval gems, the city is always shaking its leg on concert nights.